South Africa Elections 2024, scheduled for 29 May, will elect a new National Assembly and provincial legislatures.
General elections are set to be held in South Africa on 29 May 2024, marking the seventh such election since the end of apartheid in 1994. This election will determine the new National Assembly and provincial legislatures across the country’s nine provinces. The date of the elections is determined by the incumbent President, Cyril Ramaphosa, and must be within 90 days of the end of the current Parliament’s term.
Political Landscape
Since 1994, the African National Congress (ANC) has consistently secured a majority in both the National Assembly (lower house) and the National Council of Provinces (upper house). However, recent municipal elections in 2021 saw the ANC’s support dip below 50% nationwide for the first time post-apartheid. The party also faced losses in key metros, including Tshwane, Johannesburg, and Ekurhuleni.
Coalition Politics
In response to the changing political landscape, various opposition parties have joined forces to form a united front against the ANC and the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF). A Multi-Party Charter was signed in August 2023, proposing a national coalition in the event of a hung parliament. This coalition aims to present a united front against the two-decade rule of the ANC and the rise of the EFF.
Emergence of uMkhonto we Sizwe
Former President Jacob Zuma’s departure from the ANC in December 2023 led to the formation of his political party, uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK). The party’s registration faced legal challenges, but Zuma was ultimately permitted to stand in the election. MK could potentially become the kingmakers after the elections, according to opinion polling.
Electoral System Changes
Significant changes have been made to the electoral system ahead of the 2024 elections. The Electoral Amendment Bill, signed into law in April 2023, allows independent candidates to stand for election to the National Assembly and provincial legislatures. Voters will now receive three ballot papers, with the first two used to elect members of the National Assembly and the third for provincial legislatures.
What’s Next?
As the election date approaches, political parties are gearing up for a highly contested and closely watched election. With the political landscape evolving and new players entering the fray, the 2024 South Africa elections are set to be a pivotal moment in the country’s democratic history.
Stay tuned to BlaccTheddi Post for more updates and analysis on the South Africa elections 2024.
